The Housing Authority last month met with a total of 27 defaulting property owners in the central and western division to restructure their repayment in order to retain their homes.

Housing Authority's Marketing and Public relations Manager, Shirley Tagi, said the Authority's primary objective is to help the homeowner work out an arrangement to avoid foreclosure and allow the homeowner to stay in his or her home.

Tagi said it also enables their Management and credit staff to personally meet with homeowners who fall within the screening criteria to help sort through the issues that have led to default.

Foreclosure procedures are thoroughly explained, to help the homeowner work with HA to explore alternatives.

Tagi said they are willing to listen and find mutually acceptable solutions within reasonable boundaries as long as their customers' financial situation is well-substantiated, adding this will ensure beneficial outcomes for both parties and prevents anyone from becoming a chronic defaulter, or worse becoming homeless.

Meetings are scheduled for customers in Suva for the 25th, 27th and 29th May and for Lautoka from 3-5th June.